Greenside High School teacher Sibusiso Masombuka has been named as a local hero by MTN for his online teaching efforts during lockdown.
Speaking to the Gazette after winning a range of prizes for himself and his school, Masombuka said the award has given him the motivation to innovate and continue.
The sports administrator and Grade 10 head at Greenside High explained that it was as a result of his teaching through the Africa Teen Geeks online platform that he received the nomination.
“Africa Teen Geeks is a platform where lots of kids can join for free and receive lessons via Zoom or YouTube. I joined at the beginning of lockdown to help teach life orientation to Grade 10 and 12,” Masombuka explained.
The platform has since reached over 3 million learners during lockdown, with Masombuka receiving many requests for his lessons to be shared.
Masombuka recently launched his own YouTube channel ‘Swaggy School Teacher’ to provide lessons in business studies and life orientation.
“I don’t want to monetise the platform, but rather grow my subscribers and give back. I grew up in an era where I was raised by my community and I think that online learning is a great way to give access to education and grow ourselves.”
Masombuka said that for him, the real heroes are the learners who have persevered and put in the effort during this uncertain time.
“It’s the kids who stay motivated and keep their heads up that need to be acknowledged. It takes great discipline to learn from home and it’s heart-warming to see their dedication. I believe they will reap the rewards for their hard work.”
After discovering that he had been recognised by MTN as a local hero, Masombuka was honoured to receive a video call from Springbok rugby player Bongi Mbonambi.
Check out his video:
He also received a R5 000 voucher for himself, a new laptop and R20 000 for his school, which will be used to purchase choir instruments, sports equipment, a new kit for the basketball team and contribute towards renovation of the school gym.
Principal at Greenside High Nicola Whyte congratulated Masombuka saying, “I am filled with pride and joy. You are a credit to yourself and your family and Greenside High. You are an inspiration and example to our learners. I hope the joy you find in your work never diminishes.”
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https://www.citizen.co.za/rosebank-killarney-gazette/223858/greenside-high-over-the-moon-with-100-per-cent-pass-rate/
https://www.citizen.co.za/rosebank-killarney-gazette/266162/greenside-principal-reflects-on-another-year-at-the-best-public-high-school/
